Japanese-Language Program for Foreign-Service Officers & Public Officials

Japanese-Language Program for Foreign-Service Officers & Public Officials

This program is intended for young foreign-service officers and public officials who require Japanese-language ability to perform their work at overseas government and public institutions. With cooperation from the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affai rs, the Japan Foundation invites such people to Japan for an 8-month period to conduct training in Japanese language and circumstances.

Program Period

8 months (2015 Academic Year: September 2015 to May 2016)

Eligible Participants

Japanese-Language Program for Foreign-Service Officers:
Young foreign-service officers who are expected to be involved in the planning of government policy by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs / 30 participants

Japanese-Language Program for Public Officials:
Young public officials who are expected to be involved in the planning of government policy by government and public institutions / 10 participants

*Potential participants in the Japanese-Language Program for Foreign-Service Officers & Public Officials are selected in cooperation with the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and government institutions in applicable foreign countries. The program is not open to the general public (individual requests for participation will not be accepted).

Training Content

This program is designed to meet the needs of participants who are expected to conduct activities related to Japan in foreign governmental institutions. This includes participants who are currently employed at embassies in Tokyo. The program seeks to provide participants with language skills that will be useful in their work, and focuses on oral communication. Classes address topics such as giving speeches, making presentations, and conducting social conversation. The program also contains a variety of activities for deepening understanding of Japanese society and culture. These activities include lectures and cultural experiences conducted by experts, visits to government institutions, corporations, and cultural facilities, and training field trips. The activities also serve to help participants create a network of social contacts throughout the country.